Make-up artists apply make-up and style the hair of performers and presenters. They may work in film, television, theatre, on commercials, pop promos, corporate productions, fashion shows and live performances, and photo shoots. Their work plays an important part in creating the right ‘look’ for a production.
The type of make-up used depends on the production. It can range from a contemporary ‘natural look’ for a television presenter, to period styles for historical dramas, ‘casualty’ make-up (blood and bruises), or the application of small prosthetics, such as false noses and scars.
Make-up artists usually work to a brief. For drama productions this may include character and scene breakdowns, and detailed notes and pictures of the look they must create. Depending on the production, their work may include:
- selecting and purchasing supplies
- research and design
- doing ‘corrective’ make-up and hair tidying for presenters and interviewees
- applying make-up to actors
- fitting hairpieces, bald caps and prosthetics
- re-applying make-up when necessary
- keeping careful notes and taking photographs to ensure continuity
- removing products
- carrying out risk assessments and developing procedures to control risks.
Make-up artists must be experienced in using a range of professional products. They may also work with wigs, facial and other false hair, and prosthetics.
Make-up artists work closely with performers and presenters, making sure that they are comfortable with their look and checking for any allergies. On larger productions they may be employed as a personal make-up artist, responsible for the look of a principal actor.
Make-up artists also work closely with directors, designers, cinematographers, costume designers and other members of the technical team, to make sure that their work suits the overall production design.
Hours and environment
Hours are long and irregular. A standard working day may be around 8-10 hours, and overtime is common. Make-up artists often have to work in the evenings, at weekends and during public holidays. They sometimes work on more than one production at a time.
The work is usually indoors – in dressing rooms, make-up rooms, television or film studios, on make-up trucks or in people’s homes – sometimes in small, cramped environments. Location work can involve working outdoors in all weathers. The job can also involve long periods away from home.
Make-up artists have to have their own kit, which can be heavy to carry around. They may spend a great deal of time standing or bending over actors to apply make-up.
The job may be unsuitable for people with sensitive skin or certain allergies.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- A newly qualified make-up artist may earn up to €25,000 a year.
- Make-up artists with experience may earn over €35,000 a year.
- A chief make-up artist may earn around €60,000 a year.
Skills and personal qualities
A make-up artist should have:
- make-up and hairdressing skills, including corrective, glamour, period and ageing, as well as special techniques
- artistic and technical skills
- a good eye for colour and detail
- communication skills
- the ability to put people at ease
- diplomacy and tact
- the ability to work effectively as part of a team and under pressure of deadlines
- IT skills
- knowledge of health and safety legislation and procedures.
Interests
It helps to be interested in:
- storytelling and character building
- people
- contemporary and historical styles and fashion.
Getting in
Most make-up artists are freelance and work on short-term contracts which can last for just one day or up to a few months. Opportunities may be found in theatre, television and film, corporate productions and commercials, and with photographers working on magazines or advertising shoots.
Entry routes
Although not an essential requirement, most make-up artists have undertaken training. There is a wide range of relevant courses at various levels in hairdressing, make-up and beauty therapy. They will also have gained practical experience, possibly working in beauty or hair salons.
There is also a wide range of short courses, including courses in specialist techniques, such as prosthetics or special effects make-up.
Applicants should check course content and entry requirements with course providers.
They may have to demonstrate their potential with a portfolio of work.
It is essential to gain practical experience. Courses may include work placements and relevant experience can also be gained in amateur or fringe theatre, student films and photography projects, charity or student fashion shows.
A make-up artist for film and television usually starts as a trainee or assistant and works their way up. It may be possible to find work as a ‘daily’, mainly on films, employed on a day-to-day basis, usually on large crowd scenes.
Training
Make-up artists usually train on the job, learning from more experienced colleagues. They need to keep up with new techniques and materials throughout their careers.
Useful Links:
Irish Film and Television Network
National Association of Screen Make-up & Hair